First Impressions

2017 Honda CR-V

Episode 3619

The 2017 Honda CR-V is proof that even best sellers must evolve. The fifth generation of this compact crossover is longer, wider and taller, even if it looks highly familiar. Designers clearly envisioned the wind sweeping over the front fascia, aggressive headlights, and wing-shaped DRLs and turn signals. Plus, a fuel saving Active Shutter Grille system makes its Honda debut.

At the rear, the winged shape lighting now stretches under the hatch glass.

Another first for a Honda is a Hands Free Access Power Tailgate. It’s available on CR-V and fast becoming a utility must have. Honda Sensing advanced safety features are available on all but base LX trim.

Inside we quickly noticed a slimmer A-pillar, and lots of other small but meaningful improvements.

GREG CARLOSS: “Now there are a lot of major changes in the new CR-V. I’ll go over a few that are catching my eye and that starts with the interior. Much more handsome. The materials are more upscale. It just has a more luxurious feel, especially when you get up into the upper trims. There’s also the addition of the volume knob which a ton of people including myself have been waiting to see. Now if they’d go one step further and add the tune knob I’d be completely happy”

JOHN DAVIS: For the first time too, this compact-ute gets a turbocharged 4-cylinder 190-horsepower engine on all but the base model. The CR-V wasn’t the first compact crossover, but quickly gained lots of loyal fans, topping our last two compact crossover challenges. The 2017 Honda CR-V is on sale now starting at around $24,000.